Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Efficiency" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "efficiency", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
効率
こうりつ (kouritsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
能率
のうりつ (nōritsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "efficiency" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 効率 and 能率.
In Japanese, 効率 (こうりつ (kouritsu)) is typically associated with "efficiency" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to doing something well without wasting time, energy, or resources. 時間や労力を無駄にせず、物事をどれだけうまく行えるかを指します。.
On the other hand, 能率 (のうりつ (nōritsu)) maps to "efficiency" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to efficiency of work, study, or operation. Often used as 能率が良い. A literal translation of "efficiency" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "効率"
仕事の効率を上げる方法を考えている。
I'm thinking of ways to improve work efficiency.
Bilingual Context for "能率"
静かな環境で作業することで、仕事の能率が格段に上がります。
Working in a quiet environment remarkably increases work efficiency.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "仕事の ＿＿＿ を上げる方法を考えている。" (Meaning: "I'm thinking of ways to improve work efficiency.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "効率" fits here because it means "efficiency" in the context of: "I'm thinking of ways to improve work efficiency.". "能率" represents "efficiency".